The Plasma Membrane

Front

What is the primary function of the plasma membrane?

Back

Regulate what enters and leaves the cell.

Front

What is the overall structure of the cell membrane called?

Back

Phospholipid bilayer.

Front

What are the main components of the cell membrane?

Back

Most of the cell membrane is made of lipids.

Front

What is diffusion?

Back

The process in which molecules move from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration across a selectively permeable membrane.

Front

How does cholesterol function in the plasma membrane?

Back

Helps stabilize the membrane at body temperature.

Front

What is the role of proteins in the plasma membrane?

Back

Proteins assist in transport, act as receptors, and provide structural support.

Front

What does selectively permeable mean?

Back

It means that the membrane allows certain substances to pass while blocking others.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

The diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane.

Front

What is active transport?

Back

The movement of molecules against their concentration gradient, requiring energy.

Front

What are glycoproteins?

Back

Proteins with carbohydrate chains that play a role in cell recognition and signaling.